Murphy sets his sights on a call-up for Scotland

Sheffield United star Jamie Murphy admits the prospect of a senior call-up to the Scotland squad will inspire him to continue performing this season.

Murphy, the 25-year-old Glaswegian, has arguably been United’s standout performer this season and international surely beckons.

But Murphy is aware that driving United to the Championship will only enhance his chances: “I have been asked the question about playing for the Scotland team since I was about 18,” he said.

“And I am not expecting anything to happen. Of course, you want to play for your country... ask any footballer and they will tell you the same thing.

“But all I can do is work hard, play well and if I am not getting noticed, it’s up to me to work that bit harder and play a bit better.

“That’s the kind of attitude I have. After all, I have no right to get picked and it is up to me to work harder and play harder and maybe do the things that get noticed, scoring more goals and that type of thing.

“But it definitely drives me on to try and get that call.”

Murphy goes into Saturday’s League One clash at Scunthorpe United searching for his 11th goal of the season.

“Up in Scotland, I always seemed to score double figures but this season will be the first time in England,” said the former Livingston man.

“Hopefully there will be a few more to come, between now and the end of the season.